Right before Memorial Day weekend, Nick took Lucas on a "big boys" trip to the Steep Ravine Cabins, just south of Stinson Beach. Each bare-bones cabin dates back to the 1940s, and features a wood-burning stove, a dining table, sleeping platforms (apparently very hard so bring a tent mattress) and an outdoor barbeque. Perched high up on the side of a cliff, the expansive ocean views are to die for. I had never heard of these cabins before, but apparently you need to book them months in advance, and be quick -- reservations are available on the first day of the month at 8 a.m. PST, and the entire month books up in minutes. Seriously? Well, we were lucky that my friend Lisa did all the hard work for us and booked it quick style. Her plans fell through, she sent out an email to friends offering up her spot, I forwarded it to Nick thinking it might be a fun Daddy-and-Lucas trip (not realizing it was a hot commodity, duh!), and of course Nick jumped on it. Score!

We do a lot as a family, but I am a huge fan of one-on-one trips with the kids. Remember my Spring Break Trip to Legoland with Lucas? It's fun, easier than traveling with both kids (why did I ever complain when there was just one?), and best of all, Nick and I both get much-needed bonding time with each of the boys. The kids crave it and everyone is in a great mood when we reunite.

Crazy amazing views overlooking the ocean!

This trip coincided with a fun project Lucas' preschool class will be doing throughout the year and beyond: a small stuffed tiger, named Ella, goes home with each child along with a journal. During her week-long visit with us, we jotted down our adventures in the journal and included photos or drawings of our activities. It was the perfect opportunity to take Ella to the Steep Ravine Cabins! Tucked into the side pocket of Lucas' backpack, Ella got to see the breathtaking views from the cabin, collect driftwood, learn how to eat a hot dog correctly (according to Lucas), sleep in a sleeping bag, and take a dip in the ocean at Stinson Beach.

+ Photos taken by Nick with iPhone 4+ Find me on Instagram (@good_on_paper)+ Subscribe to receive the latest posts and Good on Paper updates delivered to your inbox. You could also use Blog Lovin' or Feedly to follow along.